Viet Nam's tuna exports to a number of markets throughout the Middle East region hit US$82 million last year, reported the Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP).

Specifically, tuna exports to Israel, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Turkey soared by 37 percent, 17 percent, 23 percent, and 73 percent, respectively.

Although the Middle East accounts for nearly 10 percent of Viet Nam's total tuna export turnover, the market sets forth high requirements for imported food products, including Halal certification, forcing local firms to fully abide by these stringent standards.

According to the VASEP, tuna exports in 2023 decreased by 17 percent to US$845 million compared to 2022.